Cain Velasquez is open to a potential comeback, but only if the financial compensation is sufficient. The former heavyweight champion addressed his future after appearing at the Rousey vs. Carano event, stating that the money would have to make him want to return to competition.
Cain Velasquez has not closed the door on returning to mixed martial arts competition, but the former UFC heavyweight champion made clear that the financial terms would need to be compelling enough to bring him back. Velasquez addressed the possibility of a comeback after appearing at the Rousey vs. Carano event, telling those present that the money would have to motivate him to step back inside the cage.
Velasquez, now 43 years old, carries a professional record of 14 wins and 3 losses and remains one of the most accomplished heavyweights in MMA history. The American Kickboxing Academy product out of the United States stood six-foot-one with a 77-inch reach and built his reputation on a suffocating combination of elite wrestling and high-volume striking. His numbers back that up: he averaged 6.37 significant strikes landed per minute at a 57 percent accuracy rate, while also threatening with 5.13 takedowns per 15 minutes throughout his career.
Why it matters
- Velasquez was a two-time UFC heavyweight champion and any return would immediately register as a significant divisional event
- At 43, durability and ring rust are legitimate factors given the time he has spent away from competition
- His wrestling-heavy, high-output style would present a unique challenge for any current heavyweight contender
